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An arrest and conviction for driving while under the influence (DUI) can have an impact on your career in a hospital, especially in certain positions. The actual implications vary by professional and employer policies. Each state and industry professional medical board oversees reporting requirements and policies regarding gaining and maintaining licensing following convictions.

Nursing

In nursing, state nursing boards may require that you report a DUI when applying for a license or if you hold a license. Background checks are a common part of the licensing process. If you have a DUI or fail to report one, your ability to work in a hospital or hold your license may be affected in some states, according to Nurse License Defense Attorney and Consultant Latonia Denise Wright. A licensed defense attorney can provide specific advice for medical professionals working in hospitals.

EMT

The National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians indicates on its "Felony Conviction Policy" page that a DUI conviction is a "discretionary" denial factor. As such, the NREMT can reject an application for EMT certification based on the seriousness of the crime, its recency and relevance to the job. EMTs and paramedics are at particular risk because of their driving responsibilities on the job.

Doctors and Surgeons

Doctors and surgeons can typically work in a hospital after a past DUI. However, a DUI conviction during employment may be grounds for termination because of the potential risks of lawsuit against the hospital if a doctor is under the influence while providing care. The state medical board may also review a doctor's license and hold an appeals hearing if it has concerns about safe practice.

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About the Author

Neil Kokemuller has been an active business, finance and education writer and content media website developer since 2007. He has been a college marketing professor since 2004. Kokemuller has additional professional experience in marketing, retail and small business. He holds a Master of Business Administration from Iowa State University.

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Kokemuller, Neil. "Can You Work in a Hospital if You Have a DUI?" Work - Chron.com, http://work.chron.com/can-work-hospital-dui-24657.html. Accessed 20 January 2019.

Kokemuller, Neil. (n.d.). Can You Work in a Hospital if You Have a DUI? Work - Chron.com. Retrieved from http://work.chron.com/can-work-hospital-dui-24657.html

Kokemuller, Neil. "Can You Work in a Hospital if You Have a DUI?" accessed January 20, 2019. http://work.chron.com/can-work-hospital-dui-24657.html

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